My Carling Black Label Cup experience

Botswana Soccer administrators have a lot to learn from their South African counterparts when it comes to organising big spectacular cups.

My travel to Johannesburg in South Africa last Saturday opened my eyes at how things are done.

My first impression about good management of events was at the arrival at First National Bank Stadium (FNB Stadium) by the entrance.

Soccer lovers clad in their regalia replica kits were visible.

HAPPY MOMENT: Fans

They sang, danced and ululated along the streets of Soweto.

I could only marvel at their excitement because two of the most popular teams in Africa in Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs were moments away from kicking the pigskin.

Yes! It was the 5th cup dubbed Carling Black Label.

The one-day soccer spectacular is sponsored by Carling Black label through the brewing giant SAB Miller.

Although Carling Black Label does not want to divulge the sponsorship amount, South African media speculated that the cup winners, Orlando Pirates pocketed R 12 million while Chiefs got R 10 Million richer from the clash.

Both teams have played in the cup for 5 years.

PROUD SPONSOR: Carling Black Label Brand Manager Mpho Motlhabane

At least 95 000 spectators filled the stadium and unlike in Botswana where sitting protocol is strictly observed our neighbours pay very little attention to sitting arrangements and fans from both teams enjoyed themselves, cheering and dancing without from opponents.

Credit must also be given to the organisers of the event.

Everything went according to plan. The Media booth had access to free Wifi and organised interviews went without a hitch.

South Africans clearly understand that the media is a stakeholder in the game of soccer.

To say that Botswana media was impressed would be an understatement. We were stunned!

From guys who paid the hefty R2001 for a VIP ticket to those who paid the least, all were treated like royalty.